Dave Lauck has
been customizing and enhancing the 1911 Auto Pistol for decades in
order to provide clients with a pistol they could depend on.

Many lessons
have been learned and much experience gained during this period. This
gunsmithing knowledge has been combined with decades of personal front
line responder service, firearms instruction/training, and high level
competition shooting to design and manufacture D & L premium grade
1911 Auto Pistols. D&L Sports™ is the only known gunsmithing operation
to have extensive experience in all of these important areas. Interaction
with and training of some of America's finest combat troops has allowed
for a wide variety of conflict experiences to be factored in D&L
Sports™ products. While others may manufacture guns for sale, Dave
Lauck knows the value of a truly reliable firearm. No custom project
leaves D&L Sports™ without the value of reliability. Whether you
are in need of a defense pistol, practical competition pistol, or
are looking for an heirloom quality work of art, D&L Sports™ can
deliver. All guns from D&L Sports™
are personally crafted by Dave Lauck. No production lines, and no
apprentices work on your gun. Dave Lauck does not deliver fragile,
finicky guns built with frail competition parts. D&L Sports™ 1911's
are built to be heavy duty, long term reliable, and court room defensible.

Please don't expect any D&L Sports™ products to be labeled with any tough, macho, or commandoish type names. This type of marketing conduct is offensive, and the mark of amateurs.

A safe and reliable
pistol should be your primary focus when evaluating 1911's for service
use. All D&L Sports™ pistols are constructed and adjusted to be as
reliable as a mechanical device can possibly be. No pistol leaves
D&L Sports™ without passing the mechanical function test with 100%
reliability. All test firing for function, accuracy, and point of
impact is done personally by Dave Lauck.

The question
about whether to use a firing pin block safety or not often comes
up among those considering 1911 style pistols. Dave Lauck's short
answer to this question is yes, use a well designed firing pin block
safety in your 1911. All D & L signature 1911's are manufactured with
an operational firing pin block safety.

Why?
leads to a longer discussion. Some people representing
themselves as authorities on the 1911 will advise against
a firing pin block safety in your 1911. An argument to
maintain simplicity may be used, but the mechanics of
currently available firing pin blocks are often confused.
Simple is good, and the correct firing pin block does
not add much in the way of complexity. New firing pin
block designs are unproven, thus not yet worthy of your
trust. The trigger activated firing pin block has proven
reliable in over 20 years of hard use and is the design
used in D&L Sports™, Inc. pistols.

Some
smiths may argue that a trigger activated firing pin block
safety creates difficulty in creating quality trigger
pulls, and further argue for a firing pin block safety
that operates via grip safety depression. Dave Lauck's
position is that with the right skill, knowledge, and
experience during pistol construction, the trigger activated
firing pin block safety system can indeed allow for a
quality trigger pull. Dave Lauck cautions against grip
safety depression actuation of the firing pin block safety
because you deactivate the firing pin block safety when
you grip the pistol. This means you may be holding a suspect
at gunpoint with your firing pin block safety device deactivated.
If your sear were to break the gun could fire, possibly
full auto. In other words you just as well be pointing
a pistol with no firing pin block safety at all.

Some
people overlook the fact that firing pin block safeties
are not just "drop safeties" to prevent the gun from firing
if it is dropped. Provided your firing pin block safety
is of trigger activated design, it locks the firing pin
in place until the trigger is pulled. This allows the
firing pin block safety to guard against unexpected firing
should you have mechanical failure in the hammer/sear
area. It could also be a decisive factor in post shooting
investigations.

Don't
be mislead or confused about being "drop safe"
and a pistol which actually has a "firing pin block".
Some companies are simply upgrading an older 1911 design
with lightweight firing pins and heavier firing pin springs
to make pistols less likely to fire when dropped. This
is certainly cheaper than the machine time and components
required to do a well designed firing pin block, but certainly
not better when you consider the overall design safety
of the pistol. Some of the lightweight firing pin materials
have already demonstrated brittleness and tip fracturing,
which is a serious reliability concern. Doing things the
best way possible, not necessarily the cheapest, is the
main focus at D&L Sports™ Inc.

In
summary, yes a firing pin block safety is very wise and
is recommended. The trigger activated design is best,
and all D&L Sports™ signature pistols have this feature.

Furthermore,
all D&L Sports™ signature pistols feature properly fitted
thumb safeties, grip safeties, disconnectors, and have
secondary sear shelves on the hammers. D&L pistols feature deep full cock hammer hooks in order to assure reliable sear engagement instead of minimal hammer hooks in an attempt to short cut proper and safe trigger work. What is
the bottom line on all this discussion of internal parts
on D&L Sports™ 1911's. Simple; D&L Sports™ signature
pistols are the most mechanically safe 1911's available.

Shooters can have a choice
of thumb safety fit when ordering a custom 1911 from D&L Sports™. A high
grip fit thumb safety will be well contoured with a high relief cut on
the base safety plate under the thumb lever. This allows shooters to have a
high grip (thumb on top of the safety) and comfortable hold without the
thumb safety plate wearing on the web of their hand. Critical to high
volume shooters. High cutting the thumb safety plate does create a
cosmetic issue for some people. It allows a small portion of a frame hole to
show when the safety is in the up position. This is not a safety or
reliability concern. Dave Lauck has carried personal thumb safeties fitted
this way for more than 30 years with zero negative issues arising. It is the
recommended cut for high thumb 1911 shooters (which is the recommended firing
hold). Shooters who select a larger plate, for cosmetic reasons, often
return after becoming more experienced shooters and request the plate be
relieved for a more comfortable high grip hold. D&L pistols feature a
high cut and contour unless you favor a fuller satey plate for cosmetic
reasons. Be sure to advise when you order if this is your preference.

Ambidextrous or single
side safety?

Short answer:
Single side only, unless you are primarily left handed.

Longer answer:
Long term experience with currently available ambi safeties for the 1911 has
indicated they are an option that requires periodic maintenance. They
generally use a tongue and groove connection between the two safety levers
which can develop slack with use. Generally speaking, they are not as long
term durable as a single safety and they add complication to the pistol.

A single sided safety is
long term durable and maintains positive operation for years without additional
maintenance. A primarily right handed shooter should choose a single sided
safety and acquire professional training to allow safe and positive operation
with either hand.

A primarily left handed
shooter utilizing an ambi safety should have it periodically checked for fit and
function by a qualified pistol smith.

1911 shooters, especially
those who fire left handed, should have the slide stop cross pin cut down to
just below flush with the frame. This helps avoid locking the pistol up by not
allowing support hand pressure to be exerted on the end of the slide stop cross
pin.

Should I use a stainless
steel slide and frame as a base for a custom 1911? Short answer: No.

SS will not run as
smoothly or snugly as a properly fit and finished carbon steel pistol. SS has
problems with galling when two pieces of SS slide against each other. Carbon
steel can be properly fit for snug, smooth, and long term reliable function.
Then it can be over finished for excellent corrosion resistance.

Shooters
interested in a professional grade 1911 for competition
use can specify a reasonable competition trigger job at
no extra charge.

D&L
signature pistols use broach cut, wide tenyon front sight
attachment methods. Why do this when most production guns
are coming out with cross dovetail front sights these
days? Simple answer; Durability and Reliability.
Detailed answer; Yes it is true that cutting cross dovetails
in slides and sliding in a front sight is a much easier
method of sight installation. An easier production line
method of sight installation does not mean it is the best
method. Cross dovetail sights generally have a very small
section of metal connecting the cross portion of the sight
to the upright portion of the sight. Combine this with
the somewhat violent operation of the slide over thousands
of rounds and you have the recipe for the front sight
upright shearing off from the cross piece. Another very
serious problem is when the front sight is not properly
locked in the cross dovetail and it moves laterally. When
this happens, especially when the movement is slight,
it is not readily noticed. Sideways front sight movement
can cause a drastic change in your point of impact. Since
the front of a service pistol is subject to many bumps
and jolts, it is exactly the wrong place to attach a sight
that can be bumped sideways. D&L 1911 front sights are
constructed and installed in a manner which makes side
movement impossible without the literal destruction of
the sight itself. Installing D&L sights and night inserts
is not the production line easy way of doing things, it
is the right way of 1911 front sight installation.

What about
shootability? Shootability depends a lot on how a pistol handles,
or "drives". Experienced high speed "gun drivers" understand how the
fit and function of a pistol affects their performance. D&L Sports™
signature pistols have properly fitted controls that give professional
level shooters the responsiveness they are looking for, and the blended
parts, edges, and corners allow for comfortable high speed handling.

Durability
concerns? Experienced shooters who have gone through their share of
disappointments with lesser 1911's will want to know what kind of
durability to expect. There are no questionable quality parts used
in D&L Sports™ signature 1911's, only proven premium parts are used
throughout. This includes the night sight inserts which are the finest
in the industry to assure long term service life. Using the right
parts the first time leads to long term durability. Dave Lauck's experience
with 1911's allows for the right component selection the first time.
There are several 1911 test guns in service at D & L Small Arms Training
Academy with over 300,000 rounds and counting through them with no
parts breakage and only general preventative maintenance. Component
corrosion protection on D&L Sports™ 1911 signature pistols is handled
with satin hard chrome as a standard overall finish. This finish was
originally designed for boat propellers operating in salt water. It
has been reliably protecting 1911's for over 30 years. It is non reflective
and very durable. It still allows for color options such as black,
gray, and OD green as overcoat finishes for those desiring such an
option.

Safety,
reliability, and durability are critical, but accuracy is also a high
priority. What about the accuracy performance of D&L Sports™ signature
pistols? Dave Lauck achieves 1911 reliability through consistent mechanical
operation. Accuracy is achieved by the high grade accuracy components
of the pistol operating in the same consistent manner. This is made
possible through experienced hand fitting.

Matched
D&L Sports™ slide and frame sets are used in the construction of
every D&L Sports™ signature pistol. These parts are precisely fitted
together to obtain optimum reliability and consistent accuracy. The
D&L Sports™ stainless steel barrel and bushing sets are fitted to
achieve the same balance of reliability and accuracy. A heavy duty
bushing flange assures operational durability, as well as accuracy.
All these critical components fitted together with Dave Lauck's experience
result in service pistol reliability with an accuracy level that surpasses
most target grade 1911's.

In short,
you can expect reliability and durability, along with match grade
accuracy and cosmetic appeal, all in a single 1911 package when you
select a Dave Lauck 1911 signature pistol. These pistols are available
in multiple models and price ranges to suit the requirements of various
clients. Personal project pistols are also a possibility if you have
interest in a creation outside of the models listed. Contact D&L
Sports™ directly with such requests.

Shock buffers are the small rubber like impact washer that goes on a 1911 guide rod before the recoil spring goes on. The buffers were designed to cushion the steel against steel impact between the slide / guide rod / and frame which occurs every time the pistol fires and cycles. The goal of these impact washers is to reduce impact wear and tear on the pistol, and reduce the recoil impact felt by the shooter. Impacting a firm cushion delivers less shock to the shooter's hand than direct steel on steel impact.

Sounds good, but there are serious drawbacks. If the buffer is not maintained and the pistol is continuously fired, the buffer will be destroyed inside the pistol, come apart, and adversely affect the reliable operation of the pistol. Another problem, which is just as serious, is that installation of a buffer in the pistol shortens the slide stroke slightly over .100". This can also have an adverse operational effect on the pistol.

Solution ? Don't use a buffer in your pistol, and simply keep the recoil spring replaced every 1000 rounds to minimize steel on steel impact damage between the slide, frame and guide rod. This solution is reasonable for moderate volume shooters.

However, many D&L clients are serious pistol shooters who go through high volumes of ammo. They want to protect their investment in their pistol, and they want to minimize steel on steel impact shock felt while firing to improve their shooting performance. They are also professionals when it come to firearms maintenance, so occasionally replacing shock buffers is a simple chore.

A realistic solution for high volume shooters was developed by Dave Lauck to allow them the benefits of an impact buffer, without shortening slide travel. During the manufacturing process of the 1911 additional slide travel can be built in. This will allow full slide travel even when using shock buff washers. The shooter will still need to replace worn buffs as a routine maintenance item, but the shooter gains the protection and performance benefits of using a buff. This modification is a worthwhile option for serious shooters. Shock buffs are not recommended without this extended slide travel option.

The 1911 tanto extractor and extreme duty ejector have been designed and perfected by Dave Lauck for use in professional grade 1911s. All D&L Signature 1911s come with the Tanto extractor and extreme duty ejector as standard equipment.

Dave
Regarding the Professional Model 1911 .45 ACP you made for me, my expectations for the quality and beauty of this handgun were very high, based on what others have said about your work and the photographs of your 1911s I have seen. However, my 1911, which arrived from you today, exceeds those expectations in all aspects and very substantially so. The evident quality of this handgun is beyond compare. Its elegance is palpable, and it has an unexpected physical presence that is deeply attractive. None of the many other custom 1911s I have handled and fired even approaches this level of quality. Functionally, it is almost unreal in the way it melts into my hand, guides my eyes to the sights, and yields to a gentle press to cleanly and smoothly fire. I consider myself to be very fortunate to now own a D&L Sports 1911. Thank you! Sincerely,

Dave,
You'll be happy to know that of all 16 people in the class, and 400+ rounds fired today, only 2 guns made it all day with no malfunction: your gun and a guy with another 1911. That includes a Wilson Combat, Nighthawk, a custom built by Ted Yost, some Gunsite special gun, Springfield's and Kimber. One guy's Springfield 9mm was choking so bad he bought a new gun at the lunch break! Unfortunately we are not allowed to video in class so no action shots. Larry Vickers was very impressed with the gun.

Tony

Amidst
the long evolution of battle tested small arms, certain leaders have
emerged. One is Dave Lauck of D&L Sports™. He brings forth unique
features born from personal experience. His approach to building guns
is to save lives. A master gunsmith and policeman who understands
not only mechanisms, but purpose. Dave Lauck is a master pistolsmith
at the peak of his profession. No sharp edges were detected on Lauck's
1911, and the action itself is smooth as glass. The trigger pull was
very well executed. Very impressive were the rugged, Lauck designed
fixed sights. An absolutely superb sight picture. I love these sights.
A lot has gone into making Lauck's professional model 1911 a user
friendly 24/7 companion gun. At night a surefire x200 slid on the
frame rail effortlessly. Accuracy was tested from a bench at 25 yards
handheld. The result was five shots in a tight little circle that
measured 1.05", and the best three rounds went into 0.65".
This absolutely validates the superb accuracy of the D&L Pro Model.
Extrapolate the best groups and it works out to 1.20" at 50 yards.
A D&L Professional Model delivers mechanical accuracy that could
literally win the National Bullseye Championship at Camp Perry. More
important was the flawless functioning. Our testing included the broadest
range of ammo and the D&L pistol functioned 100% reliable. D&L
Sports™ has gone to the next level of the game in prestige, high performance
1911 pistols.

Excerpts
from Guns Magazine: Test and Evaluation of the D&L Professional
Model 1911

Hey Dave,
I wanted to give you an update on my Professional Model 45 as well as my CQB carbine. As you know, I carry each firearm on patrol all the time. They are also my primary firearms for the Special Response Team. After two years with the 45, I have close to 50,000 rounds through the gun. The gun still cycles flawlessly and feels as smooth as it did when I first received it. It is a good feeling knowing that you don’t have to worry about the reliability of your gun at any time. The CQB carbine has the same report. Many rounds and no malfunctions whatsoever.
I just recently returned from the National SWAT Championships near Castle Rock, Colorado. Needless to say, no problems with the guns that receive many second looks from other officers. On one course, a precision shot was required. While every other shooter was using a heavy barrel .308 rifle, I used my CQB carbine. I was told later by range officers that I shot the target faster than any other shooter. The hole in the target was dead center.
On another occasion, I recently finished teaching two weeks of firearms training for my department. The other instructor at the class continued to tell classes that my D&L Sports™ pistol was the only 1911 that he has never seen malfunction.
Thanks for all the quality, I never have to question the quality of equipment you produce.

M. Pfetzer

Dave
Lauck at D&L Sports™ is one of the finest and most prestigious
custom gunsmiths specializing in the 1911.

Combat
Handguns Magazine

Dave,
I just received the D&L signature 1911. Just one word: "WOW!"

Satisfied
Customer

I am currently serving in the US Navy, and I have a job that requires me to use firearms on a daily basis. I work with many types of pistols, M-4 carbines, shotguns, and at least four different models of long range sniper rifles. I recently bought a DL Sports™ Professional Model 1911, and I can say without a doubt that it is the finest pistol that I have ever worked with. The accuracy, reliability, and durability are unparalleled. I have been carrying this pistol on a daily basis for the past 3 months in numerous operations support of OIF. This pistol is far more capable than our standard issue pistol (SIG P226), and it has proven it's reliability in very harsh desert conditions.

After receiving the pistol in early 2007 (and prior to leaving for deployment), I drove to Wyoming to meet Dave Lauck in person and spend a day training at the Small Arms Training Academy (SATA). During my seven years in the military, I have trained extensively at the Mid-South Institute, Olive Security Training Center, McMillan Shooting School, and numerous other military and civilian ranges around the country. The SATA is without a doubt the best facility that I have been to. The shoot house at the SATA is outstanding and it incorporates numerous steel and paper targets in challenging and realistic scenarios. I did one "lap" through the shoot house, and probably shot more rounds than during entire days of training at other shooting schools. The SATA long distance ranges are excellent. There is a 1800yd Known Distance range which allows for the "doping" of scoped weapons, in addition to numerous Unknown Distance Targets that can be placed at virtually any distance. Although I only spent a short amount of time on the long distance range, I believe that this range would be able to cover ANY and ALL training requirements for military sniper training. In addition to the shoot house and the long distance ranges, there is a several mile long walking/"pointman" course that allows shooters to test their pistol, carbine, and rifle skills at a variety of different ranges and scenarios. I have experienced several other "pointman" courses at shooting schools or during military training, and once again, the course at the SATA was the most challenging (and the most fun) course that I have seen.

DL Sports™ products and the Small Arms Training Academy are world class, and I would give my highest recommendation to both DL Sports™ products, and the Small Arms Training Academy. Dave's products are cutting edge, and his training philosophy is backed by years real world experience.

US Navy / Iraq

D&L's Service Model for the Sandbox;10,000 Round Torture Test!
John M. Browning's Model 1911 pistol and its variants have served the American soldier, citizen, and civilian armed professional with distinction for nearly a century. Thanks to the pistol's excellent terminal ballistics, handiness and reliability, it remains one of the best tools in our tactical toolbox today. Since the birth of modern pistol craft following World War II, we've seen a rapid evolution of tactical doctrine, gunsmithing, aftermarket accessories, and production models based upon the 1911. After half a century of impressive innovation, is it still possible to bring something new to the table for the armed professional? You bet. D&L's new Service Model pistol introduces a number of patent-pending innovations that make this 1911 variant a compelling choice for the armed professional serving in the Sandbox, as well as anyone else who would be served well by an outstanding pistol chambered in .45 ACP. The proverbial frosting on the cake is that most shooters will be able to afford this pistol.
The Service Model is part of Dave Lauck's new Signature Series of pistols and tactical carbines based upon D&L's own frames and receivers. The feature-rich Service Model is about half the price of the Professional Model, making it affordable by the average Joe. In fact, D&L's Service Model costs about what I paid for my custom carry gun 14 years ago. Lauck earns bonus points for the simple, business-like name for a pistol designed for the worst conditions an armed professional might face. This is not a pistol with a dandified or sword-and-sorcery name, festooned with lots of flashy gewgaws designed to attract the newbie. While the uninitiated might view D&L's Service Model as just another Model 1911, the seasoned observer will find compelling technological innovation.
Based upon D&L's own matched frame and slide designed to provide an appropriate blending of reliability and accuracy for the armed professional, the pistol incorporates a host of useful features useful such as high visibility, snag-free low-profile sights, bar-dot tritium night sight inserts, fitted beavertail grip safety with speed bump, integral frame rail for accessories such as tac lights, and radiused primary corners and edges that maximize handling comfort. See the accompanying table for a complete list of features.
The particular pistol I used for this study was built specifically for a soldier in the Sandbox. It incorporates several noteworthy options. The pistol is specifically chambered, throated, tuned for ball ammunition, which is mandated for military combat by the Hague Accords of 1899. But the big story is Dave Lauck's incorporation of sand cuts in the barrel, frame and slide that keep the pistol operational in extremely sandy or muddy conditions.
I cannot overstate how much I like these sand cuts. While we all recognize the need to keep our weapons clean and properly lubricated, this isn't always possible in the real world. The Sandbox is a particularly harsh environment for firearms. Weapon reliability is paramount in the tactical environment. Accuracy, handiness, and other performance characteristics are irrelevant if a weapon does not function at crunch time.
Sand is a greater threat to pistol reliability than mud because of mud's ultra-small grain size, more rounded grain shape, and the lubricity provided by its water content. The 1911 tends to be reasonably tolerant of mud, which is typically expelled from the slide and frame rail interface during the action cycle. Sand's greater particle size and angularity can increase wear significantly. Sand is also harder to expel, so it tends to accumulate. More important during tactical operations, sand can slow or stop slide function.
A good way to reduce the wear from abrasive lapping of components is to treat the pistol with hard chrome. Chrome comes standard on the Service Model. The chrome is then coated with a highly durable OD green polymer finish.
A good way to improve the pistol's reliability is to structurally change the system to better cope with grit and grime. Lauck developed two complementary solutions to cope with gritty gunk in the frame/rail and barrel hood areas.
The barrel hood seems to be a primary location for the accumulation of sand or mud when the pistol is fired or the slide is racked manually. This is a common problem area because there just isn't much space available between the barrel and hood for the accumulation of sand or mud. Lauck machines flutes on the outside of the barrel hood and recesses inside the slide that are designed to collect grit that could otherwise inhibit reliability.
The slide rails also tend to accumulate grit and grime, causing the same sort of problems described for the barrel hood area of the pistol. Lauck machines channels in the slide rails and frame to mitigate this problem. These recesses accumulate grit from the rails that would otherwise increase friction between the sliding contact surfaces. This, in turn, provides smoother and more reliable function, and generates much less wear from abrasive contaminants. I'd heartily recommend both of these options to the armed professional and to the private citizen who carries the pistol afield.
Another area affected by grit and grime is the firing mechanism. Trigger and striker function seem to be the first areas affected by extreme fouling from mud or sand. Gunk can impede or even block trigger movement. Lauck mitigates this problem by providing a tactical trigger for the M1911 that functions like the aforementioned sand cuts by accumulating environmental contaminants that would otherwise generate drag affecting the trigger. Trigger break is crisp with no overtravel. Serrations on the trigger provided an exceptional interface for the trigger finger during rapid action drills, and when the operator is cold, wet or tired.
Trigger pull was outstanding despite the fact that the D&L pistol uses Series 80 style trigger components. Many of my contemporaries may find this surprising.
Many pundits and gunsmiths have criticized the Series 80 style trigger system as a lawyer-imposed, plumber's nightmare of moving parts that not only produced a disappointing factory trigger, but a trigger that was ill-suited to tuning by a gunsmith. This view is still held by a lot of folks today.
D&L's Service Model pistol shoots down that mythology. The reality is that a competent gunsmith or OEM can produce a crisp, user-friendly tactical trigger despite the presence of a Series 80-type firing pin block safety.
Boarding ships or conducting an entry can cause some peculiar problems not encountered by the average individual. Here's a real world example.
Consider an operator engaging a target from behind cover. When presenting a pistol with John Browning's short guide rod, the operator can catch the bottom of the slide with enough force to eject the chambered round without pushing the slide back far enough to chamber a new cartridge. Such a malfunction can be fatal. A full length guide rod prevents this particular problem.
Yet a lot of folks really dislike a long spring guide rod claiming it makes the 1911 slightly more difficult to field strip without a bushing wrench. All it really takes is more operator education and a slightly different disassembly technique, then a pistol with a FLGR can also be easily field stripped without a bushing wrench. The key is in the correct initial pistol set up, then proper training of personnel. Dave Lauck has been training and consulting with special operations personnel to get the armed forces updated to a new level of performance shooting. Field practical weapons maintenance is just one part of a bigger overall performance picture.
Others cite several tactical advantages: being able to press check the pistol with the thumb and finger to confirm that a round is chambered; and being able to chamber a round by pushing the lower front of the slide if one hand is out of action.
Proponents of the long guide rod point out that a full length rod provides smoother spring compression and extension, which makes cycling smoother. Moreover, the short guide rod stimulates uneven wear of the frame rails, while long guide rod mitigates this problem and can increase the pistol's useful life significantly. Furthermore, a pistol with a long guide rod can still be press checked by grasping the slide with the outside four fingers and hooking the thumb in the trigger guard. This technique can actually be safer as there is less chance of finger slippage, and the operator's finger is away from the muzzle. D&L also designed a barrel hood observation port which allows visual chamber condition inspection, at least in lighted conditions, without even requiring the shooter to move his hands out of a primary firing grip position. This is a very popular option for experienced operators who know what field practical features to look for when selecting a 1911.
What's the best guide rod length for you? That is a very personal decision. Dave Lauck will fit his pistols with whichever option you prefer, although he prefers the full length rod. I personally favor a long guide rod as well. So did the client who commissioned D&L to build this pistol for the Sandbox.The 1911's Achilles Heel
In my experience, the extractor is the Achilles heel of the M1911. Yet extractors don't generate much copy. That's a shame because most mechanical failures of the M1911 that I've seen relate to a damaged or broken extractor. It is worth noting that most of these failures were ultimately caused by operator error.
Why? Because extractors are one of the most misunderstood aspects of small arms design. I've watched soldiers, law enforcement officers, practical pistol shooters, and newbies manipulate the M1911 in ways that jeopardize the structural integrity of the gun. This is such a chronic problem that it merits some discussion.
One of the most egregious examples of operator error is locking the slide back, dropping a round in the chamber snapping the slide closed, and then inserting a full magazine. We've all witnessed this practice, even by instructors. So what's the problem?
A damaged or broken extractor can spawn a number of reliability issues. These problems occur because the Model 1911 and its variants operate by the "controlled feed" method. This means that the extractor captures the cartridge as it slides under the extractor hook after it's released from the magazine's feed lips. The extractor then controls the cartridge for much of the feeding process. Contrary to popular myth, however, the extractor hook does not routinely snap over the cartridge base.
Dropping the slide on a chambered round forces the leading edge of the extractor to slam into the rear of the cartridge at high speed. Doing this repeatedly will produce one of two events: force the hook outward out of proper alignment (which can produce a failure to extract); or generate sufficient metal fatigue so the extractor hook breaks off. A bent extractor can also produce stovepipes and other failures to feed.
There is a Big Rule here. Always chamber a round from a loaded magazine.
Consider the value of having additional insurance. D&L's new Tanto extractor significantly reduces the risk of bending or breaking the extractor hook when a stuck case must be cleared by forcing the extractor hook over the base of the case. The leading edge of Lauck's redesigned extractor hook looks like a Tanto knife blade. The new shape slides more smoothly and reliably over the cartridge base as it snaps into place. Made from heat-treated spring steel, the Tanto extractor will improve both reliability and service life.
What's the bottom line of the Tanto extractor? It is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to significantly improve the reliability of the M1911. I can recommend the Tanto extractor with considerable enthusiasmShooting Impressions
My goal was to evaluate D&L's Service Model pistol in terms of reliability, handiness (as measured by overall fit to the hand, and the speed of target acquisition), and practical accuracy. I was impressed by the user-friendliness of this pistol. Friendly comportment begins with the yin and yang of its softened edges, versus its moderately aggressive grip strip, tough checkered grips, and serrated trigger that provide a dependable interface between the pistol and the hand. Felt recoil is mitigated by the relatively high hand position provided by the beavertail grip safety, which never precipitated a failure to disengage thanks to its speed bump.
I fired D&L's Service Model with 230 grain .45 ACP from Black Hills Ammunition, UMC, Winchester, and Fiocchi. I also fired a hodgepodge of FMJ range leftovers and floor sweepings that I've accumulated over the last 40 years. Some ammunition was cannelured to prevent bullet push back during the somewhat violent feed cycle a semi auto pistol delivers to the ammunition. Bullet push back, all at once or in increments, can cause a pistol to experience a stoppage, so cannelured cartridge cases are a wise investment. It is worth noting that individuals and departments can buy Black Hills ammunition factory direct, if it is not available locally.
By the time I'd concluded my evaluation of this pistol, it had digested more than 10,000 rounds of ammunition without a stoppage or malfunction of any kind. My middle-aged Government Model, on the other hand, has experienced at least one stoppage per 500-round case of ammunition over the years. That makes D&L's Service Model at least twenty times more reliable than my Government Model. I've never seen a 1911 deliver this level of reliability. It was safe to say I was impressed.
D&L's low-profile sights proved user-friendly during concealed carry, and provided rapid target acquisition and excellent shot placement. I shot the D&L pistol side by side with my unmodified Government Model. Using a PACT timer/chronograph to keep track, D&L's Service Model provided roughly 40 percent faster target acquisition and follow-up shots. It was as handy as any 1911 I've ever used.
In terms of accuracy, my unmodified Government Model exhibited an effective range of 80 yards in my hands (measured as an 80 percent hit probability on a Pepper Popper fired from the standing modified-Weaver position). D&L's Service Model delivered an effective range of 10 yards. That's nearly 40 percent better practical accuracy during rapid-action drills.
So what's the bottom line on D&L's Service Model pistol? It delivers truly outstanding reliability, which is Job Number 1 for a defensive pistol. It fits the hand very well indeed, and it presents gracefully and securely even with cold or wet hands. The Service Model delivers excellent practical accuracy, good penetration, efficacious terminal ballistics thanks to the .45 ACP cartridge, and fast target acquisition thanks to its superb human engineering. This pistol provides an outstanding blend of accuracy, power, and speed. These are the three cornerstones of effective pistolcraft, which are known by the Latin terms Diligencia, Vis, and Celeritas among pistolcraft cognoscenti. I can recommend D&L's Service Model with enthusiasm.

A.P Harris Publications

A
substantial section of a firearms library could be devoted to books
by Dave Lauck...who is among the best of 1911 craftsmen. Only my custom
1911s by Lauck will deliver that magic 1" group accuracy at 25
yds.

Accuracy
Magazine

Dear
Dave,
I just received your 1911 Professional Model Pistol, and I must say
that I have been totally amazed by it. Inspecting it for the first
time showed it to have an incredibly fine level of craftsmanship.
The fit and finish were second to none. It is one of the most beautifully
made firearms that I have ever seen. Shooting it was a pure joy. I
conducted a regorous testing process under a variety of conditions.
Reliability was flawless and its accuracy was astounding. But I didn't
completely appreciate the quality of workmanship in it until I disassembled
it for cleaning. All the components just scream durability and reliability.
Considering all the thousands of hours of pure joy that I'll have
in shooting it I consider it to be a very economical purchase.
Thank you very much for providing me with this fine quality firearm,

Tactical
Shooter / M.D. / ITRC Competitor

Custom
combat perfection, the guns of Dave Lauck. Dave's profession is customizing
some of the finest custom rifles and pistols money can buy. The one
thing Dave never compromises on is reliability. None of his guns have
ever malfunctioned in my tests. When it comes to pistols to bet your
life on, Dave Lauck shines. I've just finished with one of Dave's
45's, it's one of the most accurate I've ever shot. I shot this one
a lot, and it never missed a hitch. Dave's rifles are as high quality
as his pistols and even more innovative. D & L's custom tactical AR-15
rifles are truly a cut above. They deliver surgical accuracy and total
reliability. The D & L custom H BAR AR-15 will put five rounds of
.223 into one hole at 100 yds. D & L also builds some of the finest
long range counter-sniper rifles available.

SWAT
Magazine

I
wish to hell I would have known about your shop some 15 years ago.
I would not have wasted my money on other guns that did not perform
to the standard you deliver. The guys I work with have the look of
envy on qualification day when they compare their targets to mine.
I have had offers for the 45, but all have been turned down, yours
has been my first 1911 that has been 100% reliable. For the record,
I have had no malfunctions whatsoever, and the pistol is still bank
vault solid after years of service.

American
Working Cop

I've
handled a lot of custom combat guns. None approach the workmanship,
reliability or accuracy of my D & L professional model .45 and AR-15
carbine. They are a privilege to own and shoot.

Satisfied
Customer

D
& L tactical weapons, from handguns to long guns, they're ready for
combat. The D & L Custom AR-15 provides surgical accuracy when you
can't afford to miss. Some of the best pistols in the country and
equally fine long guns for every purpose. The rifle performed perfectly
in every way. It delivered pinpoint accuracy. D & L 45's: D & L does
a perfect installation of the low mount sight system. The recurve
grip safety is also perfectly fitted to the frame. One couldn't ask
for better accuracy. Best of all, it never malfunctioned. D & L pistols
worked perfectly with all the loads. Superb checkering. D & L tactical
Carbine: The D & L Carbine is designed to fill the gap between a full
SWAT rifle and the SMG. This is one of the handiest systems I've ever
seen for tactical work. Dave Lauck's custom tactical weapons offer
the finest quality, surgical accuracy, and reliability.

Excerpts
from Special Weapons for Military and Police

Dave
Lauck of D&L Sports™, turns out some of the finest custom firearms
in the business. The accuracy of D & L's precision work, speaks for
itself. It doesn't get any better than this.

"Guns"
Buyer Guide

Lauck's
normal stock and trade is the tactical world of very sophisticated
handguns, patrol carbines, and long-range precision rifles. I can
tell you from experience that I have handled and fired literally dozens
of guns from D & L and there has never been one in the lot that was
not 100% reliable and more accurate than I could shoot it.

Satisfied
Customer

Dave
Lauck is one of the nations premier custom gunsmiths. His custom gunsmithing
ranks with the very best. His custom 1911's are truly superior. Fired
at 25 yds. Six shots went into one hole measuring 0.75". 50 yd. groups
included Federal Match into 2.5". Reliability was as it should be,
100%.

Dave
Anderson
June '95 Guns Magazine

Dave,
Well Done!! Both guns shooting great and 100% reliable. The D & L
.45 is definitely a tack driver and my number one carry gun. Thanks.

Director
of Training
S.T.T.U.

Well
know for custom combat precision long range rifles and patrol carbines,
D&L Sports™ is equally adept at some of the finest professional grade
custom pistols in the world. I have found D & L products to be of
the highest quality, I cannot recall one of them ever malfunctioning.
In the serious accuracy department the D & L pistol was nothing short
of outstanding.

Custom
Combat Handguns

A
tackdriving match grade .45 that is utterly reliable even when dirty.
Seven rounds of match grade ammo went into less than 7/8" when fired
from a ransom rest at 25 yds. I lost count of the rounds through it
at somewhere between 1500 - 2000. There were no malfunctions with
factory ammo. I asked a lot from Dave Lauck when I told him what I
wanted in a 1911, but he came through with an absolutely superb pistol.
A D&L Sports™ gun guarantees pride of ownership.

The Complete Book of Handguns

Dave,
Just got my 1911, and I must say fantastic job!! Great trigger, finish,
crown and dehorn job. I am awe struck by the beauty of the final product.
I definitely want to voice my utmost satisfaction with your work.
Thanks again.

A
very happy customer

Dave,
In one word, the 1911 is "Superb"! The craftsmanship is damn near
too fine to shoot. I've owned a lot of guns, but this is the first
one that fits, it couldn't possibly be better. Outstanding work

DCI
Agent

Dave,
Your built me a 1911 two years ago, I love it. It has 10,000 rounds
through it during LFI, ASAA, Combat Master, and NTI. The gun has been
flawless with 100% reliability. It is an excellent piece of equipment.
Thanks for a great gun.

Tactical
Shooter

A
beautifully executed 1911 in a practical configuration. Lauck is a
talented machinist and meticulous craftsman, which adds up to custom
firearms that are not only rugged and accurate - they are a joy to
behold. His pistol was the unanimous choice for the Excellence in
Craft Award from the American Gunsmithing Association. One hole groups
were the order of the day. A unanimous two thumbs up.

Handguns
Magazine

D&L Sports™/Dave Lauck remains one of our foremost innovators. The
D & L pistol is a work of art. In terms of reliability, the pistol
performed flawlessly. I can't recall a D & L pistol ever malfunctioning,
and I have tested at least a dozen.

Complete
Book of Auto Pistols

The
pistol you did for me is truly art in steel, and I can say with no
BS that this 1911 is the first one of many I have owned that I have
had no malfunctions with of any kind. It is also the most accurate
pistol I have. Even after several thousand rounds, it is as tight
as the day I received it. Just wanted to let you know I am very highly
pleased with the 1911. it is nice to know personal responsibility
is well entrenched in you.

Det.
Sgt. S.O.

I
received the 1911, the gun is beautiful! Also, it has worked flawlessly.
Just wanted to let you know I was pleased, thanks!

SWAT
Officer

Dave,
The 1911 works very well. 2000 rounds with no hitches, point of aim,
point of impact. Thanks for top quality.

Deputy
Sheriff

Dave
Lauck of D&L Sports™ has the distinction of being one of the country's
top tactical gunsmiths. Dave is at his best building serious self-defense
guns. I've shot a bunch of D & L pistols and they always work to perfection.

Guns
& Weapons for Law Enforcement Magazine

Received
pistol today…I did not know you created works of art. This is far
away the best custom 1911 I've had. The fit and finish are first rate.
It's refreshing to find in this day and age someone's word as good
as gold. Thanks for the help and your dedication to the art of pistol
craft.

K.U.

I
wanted to tell you how much I appreciate the magnificent handgun.
Incredible 45, absolutely beautiful workmanship, it takes my breath
away, I could not be more pleased. And thank you very much for supporting
our troops.

Gen.
Tommy Franks

American
Gunsmithing Association news report: First Excellence of Craft Winner
announced Dave Lauck of D&L Sports™, Gillette, Wyoming, was the unanimous
choice of our judges to receive AGA's first Excellence in Craft Award.
Lauck's winning entry was a custom .45 caliber Colt 1911.

American
Gunsmithing Association

The
D & L .45 balanced nicely. The most accurate load I found was Federal
Match Hardball; at 50 yards I put five rounds into 2 1/4". All other
ammunition functioned 100%, even though the gun was not cleaned during
800 assorted rounds. The D & L guns were almost too pretty to shoot…Both
pistols featured checkering that displayed superior attention to detail.

Bob
Thomsen
PSI Magazine

Not
only were the D & L customs totally reliable, they proved to be virtual
tack drivers. These pistols typify the quality Dave Lauck's company
has become known for. We agreed that we have never fired a more accurate
pistol, it worked as smooth as silk without a hitch. A true tackdriver.
D&L Sports™ continues to develop supreme custom rifles and handguns
for tactical, self defense, competition, and sporting use. If fine
firearms with a host of custom options is what you are looking for,
take a look at D&L Sports™.

Custom
Combat Handguns

Dave
Lauck of D&L Sports™ is known for his classic custom 1911 auto pistols,
which are unsurpassed. A genuine craftsman whose work is both functional
and beautiful. My professional model is one of my most prized possessions.
It is the epitome of the custom classic 1911, accurate, accurate,
dependable and utterly reliable with meticulous workmanship.

American
Handgunner

I
don't know anyone other than Dave Lauck who has over two decades of
full time police experience during which he carried a 1911 during
uniformed patrol, plain clothes, deep cover ops, and tactical SWAT
assignments, plus extensive and successful practical shooting competition
experience and the in depth mechanical knowledge and skill to become
one of the nations premier gunsmiths. When you fight for your life,
one of the few things you can control beforehand is your chosen equipment.
When you carry a D & L firearm, you carry the confidence and knowledge
of Dave Lauck's many years of experience. That confidence is priceless.

Massad
Ayoob
Firearms Trainer

The
most impressive gun I've seen yet…As beautiful as it is functional…with
a checkering job that is precisely detailed…and no malfunctions with
a variety of .45 ACP loads.

Custom
Combat Handguns Magazine

After
shooting several thousand rounds through the D & L pistol in competition
and training without a single malfunction, this gun has obviously
had your full attention while in the making. This and other D & L
guns I have handled are of excellent quality and craftsmanship. The
D & L Custom has been handled and shot by law officers from our local
agency, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs, Highway Patrol, and top
competitors from several states. They agree the D&L Sports™ Custom
is one of the utmost quality. The D & L Custom has proven accurate
enough for shooting anything from Bullseye to speed-shooting, while
maintaining the reliability needed for law enforcement. I would like
to thank you for your dedication toward making an outstanding handgun
for law enforcement as well as competition shooters.

V.C.S.O.
Firearms Instructor

The
D & L Pistols checkering made it hug the hand, and its trigger pull
made fast follow-up shots easy. The checkered front strap was perfect,
I have never seen better. The D&L Sports™ .45 was an excellent example
of a high grade, duty class pistol. Nearly every edge of the D & L
gun was expertly blended, or melted, to make the gun feel like a smooth
bar of soap. The front strap was a sight to behold, truly perfect.
Most importantly, reliability was flawless with a variety of .45 ammo,
including ball, semi-wadcutter, round nose lead, and the brass was
thrown cleanly to the right. Dave Lauck can build a variety of styles
of 1911's, and the work is tops.

Combat
Handguns Magazine
"D & L Street Pak .45"

Customized
Colt .45 ACP Government Models are still favored by many U.S. counter-terrorism
teams, including Delta and Seals. An example is the D & L Custom.
The D & L Custom Government Model demonstrates reliability, and continues
to fire under adverse conditions.

S.T.T.U.
Instructor

Dave,
I have had my new professional model 45 for about four months now. To sum up what I'm about to write, my expectations were surpassed by far.
Being a serious shooter and law enforcement officer, I decided to go with your Professional Model.
Once I received the pistol, I immediately went to the range for a test fire. Being the owner of several D&L firearms, I knew that the test fire wasn't needed for reliability, but more for my wanting to fire the skillfully built pistol. When I first cycled the gun manually, it felt as smooth as glass. Compared to my Colt, it was the difference in driving a water truck to a new Cadillac. The aesthetics of the pistol were amazing with all the details attended to.
Once at the range, I fired at least a couple of thousand rounds within the first couple of days with no malfunctions. The point of aim, point of impact was dead on and the D&L sights gave the best sight picture that I have ever seen.
Working in a high desert county in the southwest USA, the sand cuts are as effective on windy day here as they would be in the deserts of Iraq. This was actually a last minute option that I decided to go with and am extremely happy that I did.
Unlike some of the thumbguards that I have seen on the market, the ones that you installed on my pistol are heavy duty and have no flex whatsoever. This proves effective as I maintain a high grip with my thumb rested on top of the safety while shooting. The lanyard loop is low profile but also effective for weapon retention during our Special Response Team operations.
The finish, which I specifically requested in O.D. green looks great and is showing no wear marks at all, even though I constantly draw my pistol on the range and in dry fire practice.
After days of becoming acquainted with the pistol and thoroughly testing all of the magazines that you sent me, I finally tore the gun down for cleaning. It was at this time that I really noticed all of the more intricate details that you attended to. I first noticed the well recessed, but cleanable crown on the muzzle. The lockable firing pin stop makes complete sense.
One of the more interesting details is your ejector and Tanto extractor. After years of firing my Colt with thousands of rounds, the ejector finally let go and needed to be replaced. The ejector is extremely heavy duty and seems to be double the thickness of the standard ones. I also noticed the third leg that appears to be threaded into the ejector and the frame.
The Tanto extractor that you installed with the proper notch cut out of the barrel hood relieves my worries about breakage in that area.
As I stated before, I am duly impressed with the pistol, both in looks and more importantly, function. I have had no problems to date. I just recently returned from a three gun match where I took first place utilizing all D&L guns as well as my team taking first place in the team events. I go to work each night and the farthest worry from my mind is if my pistol is going to work if I ever need it. I give my D&L gun five stars! Great work as always and thank you.

Deputy Sheriff
Southwest, USA

The
Service Model

The Service
Model was designed to be a reliable, high quality 1911 within the
affordability range of most shooters. It has the essential features
most often required for service work:

- Satin hard
chrome finish standard
- D&L Sports™ matched and fitted slide and frame set
- High visibility fixed sights
- Front and rear night sight inserts
- Fitted extended and contoured thumb safety
- Fitted beavertail grip safety with speed bump
- Fitted magazine catch
- Integral frame rail for accessories such as white lights
- Beveled magazine well
- Primary corners and edges radiused for smooth handling
- Premium grade internal lock work
- Reliable service trigger
- Firing pin block safety- D&L Sports™
signature 1911s feature a bolt on plunger tube housing, as opposed
to the industry standard of staked on housings. Why is this important?
The plunger tube housing assembly operates both the manual thumb
safety and the slide stop/release. Often times improperly staked
housings, or housings on hard use pistols will come loose from the
frame. This can cause pistol malfunction. It can also lock the thumb
safety in the ON position creating a situation where the operator
can not fire the pistol when needed. Many of these loose housings
have been found over the years during duty pistol inspections. Dave
Lauck has cured this problem by literally bolting the housing to
the frame on all full sized D&L signature model pistols.
- Grip strip on frame
- Heavy duty checkered D&L signature Aluma grips
- Lowered and flared ejection port
- Fitted and tuned extractor and ejector
- Fitted barrel and heavy duty barrel bushing
- Recessed protected crown
- Throated and polished
- General overall tuning for reliability
- Premium springs for full power duty ammunition
- 3 quality magazines- Install stainless
steel match grade barrel and bushing set
- Installation is done with reliability as priority one
- Increased accuracy is a side benefit

$2650.00

Professional dehorning, radiusing, and blending overall pistol
( a must for CCW and fast action pistols ): Add $275

Ultra high grip machined steel grip safety: Add $150

D&L
Professional Model 1911

The
Professional Model was brought out in the mid 1980's by Dave Lauck
as the ultimate non-compensated 1911. Since then numerous companies
have copied the name but there is still only one place to get an
original professional model 1911. It's from Dave Lauck's personal
workbench at D&L Sports™, Inc. This pistol is a handcrafted masterpiece
of form and function throughout, a professional grade signature pistol
of Dave Lauck. This tactical pistol is a low profile, high performance
machine for knowledgeable 1911 shooters. A pistol for clients who
demand the best, and for operators whose lives are staked on the
performance of their gear.

This pistol
is formed through uncounted hours of expert blending and fitting of
premium parts to achieve the ultimate in functional reliability and
accuracy.

This pistol
is loaded with subdued performance features, not a production line
1911 with a bunch of poorly designed aftermarket parts installed.

D&L Sports™
professional model features include:

- A D&L Sports™
matched slide and frame set expertly fitted for smooth, reliable function
and accuracy.
- Two sets of matching cocking serrations on the slide. One set in
the conventional rear position, and one just forward of the ejection
port. The forward serration set is in optimum position for high speed
hand operation of the slide without blocking the ejection port or
getting dangerously close to the muzzle.
- Premium grade night sight inserts.
- Heavy duty, heat treated, fitted slide stop.
- Edges and components properly dehorned and blended for smooth high
speed handling.
- Integral wide, but low profile, magazine well. No bolt on, solder
on, or weld on magazine wells are used. This unit is integrally machined
with the frame.
- Barrel hood inspection port for checking chamber condition.
- Precisely fitted stainless steel D&L Sports™ match barrel and bushing
set fitted to achieve functional reliability and excellent accuracy.
Fully chambered, throated, and polished. Heavy duty barrel bushing
flange assures long term durability. Recessed and protected barrel
crown minimizes the chances of rifling damage under hard use conditions.
- Front strap and mainspring housing checkered for positive grip.
- Tactical magazine release with approximately 1/16" added length.
- Top quality trigger adjusted and set for reliable interaction with
the shooter and the premium grade lock work components used in D&L Sports™ signature pistols. Master grade trigger work is performed
on all professional models with the emphasis put on long term reliability
rather than target pistol trigger pulls. The result is a trigger system
you can depend on for years of service and thousands of rounds.
- Top quality springs throughout the professional model provide reliable
function with service ammunition. This includes a heavy duty firing
pin spring which is used in conjunction with the internal firing pin
block to increase safety and improve function.
- A full length stainless steel guide rod is fitted to improve smooth
function. This feature also minimizes the chances of slide set back
and ejection of your chambered cartridge during close contact encounters.
- D&L Sports™ signature 1911s feature a bolt on plunger tube housing,
as opposed to the industry standard of staked on housings. Why is
this important? The plunger tube housing assembly operates both the
manual thumb safety and the slide stop/release. Often times improperly
staked housings, or housings on hard use pistols will come loose from
the frame. This can cause pistol malfunction. It can also lock the
thumb safety in the ON position creating a situation where the operator
can not fire the pistol when needed. Many of these loose housings
have been found over the years during duty pistol inspections. Dave
Lauck has cured this problem by literally bolting the housing to the
frame on all full sized D&L signature model pistols.
- A precisely blended and fitted high sweep beavertail grip safety
with raised speed bump. This grip safety is designed to cup the cocked
hammer and minimize the chances of hammer snag. The external portion
of the high grade stainless steel hammer used in the professional
model is narrowed and slotted to help assure there is no interference
during hammer operation and to aid in quick lock time.
- Heavy duty low profile high visibility sights. Sight configurations
used on the professional model are conducive to high speed sighting
when used by experienced shooters. Front sight attachment is neither
by narrow tenyon or cross dove tail which are both prone to moving
or sheering off on full power, high volume pistols. Professional model
slides are broach cut for super duty front sight attachment. Professional
model sights are capable of withstanding high volumes of full power
ammunition.
- A reasonably extended thumb safety is used on professional model
pistols. It is expertly fitted internally for safe, reliable function
and detail blended externally to allow for fast, non-abrasive operation,
even in a high grip hold position.
- The ejector and extractor functions are tuned for optimum reliability.
- The ejection port is opened and flared to dimensions which enhance
pistol operation, then radiused to assure smooth handling characteristics.
- A reinforced dust cover frame rail is integral with the professional
model's grip frame. This allows for attachment of high quality white
lights and/or laser sighting devices.
- Conventional stocks are surpassed by using checkered D & L signature
Aluma grips. These grips not only provide additional safety for the
shooter's hand, they are blended with the integral magazine well for
a near seamless fit.
- Standard overall finish is satin hard chrome, chosen for its non-reflective
surface and superb durability. Colored over finishes are also available
in black, gray, or OD green.
- 3 premium 1911 45 ACP magazines are included with each professional
model pistol.

$3950.00

Professional dehorning, radiusing, and blending overall pistol
( a must for CCW and fast action pistols ): Add $275

Ultra high grip machined steel grip safety: Add $150

Specifications
subject to improvements without notice.
Prices are subject to change without notice.

The
controversy continues about what type of recoil spring guide rod to
use in your 1911 autopistol. there seems to be about an even split
beteen those who prefer a short rod and those who prefer a full length
recoil spring guide rod. People on each side of the issue insist their
position is the 'right' position. Here is some information from Dave
Lauck on the matter:

-
The short spring guide rod and standard spring plug allows the pistol
to be a little easier to disassemble. This system is used on D&L service
model 1911s for those who may be a little less experienced with the
1911.

-
A full length guide rod is used in the D&L Professional model because
it does offer some benefits. (The FLGR setup is also simple to disassemble
by those with a little more experience with the 1911.) The benefits
of the FLGR system include smoother and more consistant tracking of
the slide on the frame for each and every shot. More importantly the
FLGR stops the live round in the chamber from being extracted from
the chamber and ejected from the pistol if the front underside of
the slide is slammed into a solid cover object during live fire when
the thumb safety is off. Without the FLGR in place the slide will
go back far enough to eject the live round from the chamber, but not
nessessarily far enough to pick up the next round from the magazine.
You can wind up with an empty chamber when you need it if this happens.
A FLGR can prevent this occurance, which of course, could be a critical
factor in a live situation.

-
Can you still chamber a round one handed, and conduct chamber checks
with a FLGR in place? Yes on both.

-
Does Dave Lauck use a FLGR in his personal full size carry 1911s?
Yes.

-
Can you order D&L Signature pistols with or without a FLGR. Yes, the
final decision is yours to make. If your decision varies from the
equipment lists for each D&L pistol model, please advise your preference
at time of order.

Note: There can be variations in recoil spring internal coil size, as well as poundage weights. Also, sometimes the open end of recoil springs can have a sharp edge that drags between the full length guide rod and spring plug. If you are using a full length guide rod, be sure that both ends of the recoil spring slide smoothly and drag free over the entire length of the FLGR. For 5 and 6 inch 1911 pistols firing full power 230 grain ball ammo, 18.5 pound Wolf brand variable recoil springs are recommended. If you have a FLGR in your pistol, install the recoil spring with closed end of the recoil spring at the muzzle end of the pistol. If you have a pistol with a short guide rod, about 2 inches long, install the recoil spring with the open end at the muzzle end of the pistol.

Slimline
Professional Model

The D&L Professional Model is also available in a slimline frame version, without a light rail, for those who want a slimmer / lighter everyday carry pistol.

Same pricing and options apply.

The
Professional Model - Six Inch Longslide

All
the features of the standard professional model, plus
a six inch slide and barrel combination. This provides
for a longer sight radius, increased velocity, and dampened
recoil. This is not the frail longslide target pistol
of the 1970's. This is a modern full power professional
model pistol with some additional length features.

$4425.00

Professional dehorning, radiusing, and blending overall pistol
( a must for CCW and fast action pistols ): Add $275

Ultra high grip machined steel grip safety: Add $150

Gun Test: D&L Sports™ Professional .45ACP

"Sandbox" ready Long Slide, it's as good as it gets!

Text by Charlie Cutshaw, Photos by Chris Rohling

Dave Lauck of D&L Sports™ has a well-earned reputation for building some of the finest custom firearms in the country, specializing in M1911 and M1935 High-Power pistols, AR type rifles and carbines and a variety of other firearms including Ruger handguns and rifles, Smith & Wesson handguns, Remington M700 rifles and M870 shotguns. In addition to being one of America's premier custom gunsmiths, Dave Lauck is also a competitive shooter, author and police officer, a man of many talents. We have tested D&L precision tactical rifles in the past and they have proven to be superb shooting machines, so when the opportunity came to work with one of D&L's Professional Model M1911s, we eagerly looked forward to the experience.

Gun Details

We should note that each D&L firearm is a custom firearm in the fullest sense of the word. Dave is the only gunsmith at D&L and every firearm that leaves D&L is the product of his hands. One aspect of the test and evaluation M1911 we discussed with Dave was the fact that it was a "long slide²" with a 6-inch barrel. Long slide M1911s are rarely encountered and are invariably custom guns. Like the 1911 itself, long slide pistols are not for everyone. The long slide is most definitely not a concealed carry pistol, it is simply too large in every dimension. For duty carry or field use, however, a long slide M1911 is an alternative to standard 5-inch M1911s. If the user takes the time to master it, the long slide has several advantages. First, there¹s an increased sight radius of approximately 7.5 inches versus an inch less for a standard length M1911. Longer sight radii make for better accuracy. Another benefit of longer barrels is slightly increased velocity. We noted that muzzle velocity during our long slide's testing ran slightly higher than usual. Finally, longer barrels tend to deliver better accuracy, all things being equal. Besides, there is a "cool" factor that's hard to miss.

Our first impression of the Professional Model when we picked it up was the overall quality of the fit and finish. D&L's Professional Model 1911s are put together and adjusted to be as reliable as a mechanical device can possibly be. There are no short cuts taken in construction and every pistol must pass a 100 percent test for reliability, which includes mechanical function that incorporates not only overall fit and finish, but timing, lockup, accuracy and point of impact. The care in construction of this pistol shows. Our initial inspection revealed absolutely zero "slop" between the slide and frame. Timing and lockup were perfect. The CeraKote final finish was a satin black that added to the esthetic appeal of this superb example of the gunsmith's art. Beneath the CeraKote, the steel is hard chrome plated for durability and corrosion resistance. Although our pistol was black, other colors such as OD green are optional.

Sharp edges were "melted" and gave the pistol a soft yet purposeful appearance. The long slide isn't given what we would call a full melt treatment, just enough to soften critical sharp edges. The front grip strap and mainspring housing are checkered at 30 lines per inch (lpi), and the aluminum grips have a checkering pattern that enhances the pistol's retention. The grip scales feel so good we didn't realize at first that they were aluminum. The grip safety is the obligatory beavertail, preventing hammer bite, and sits the pistol a bit lower in the shooter's hand to reduce muzzle jump. The grip safety's "memory bump" ensures that the grip safety is properly depressed every time the shooter grasps the pistol. The magazine well has a large funnel to guide the magazine into place during rapid reloads. Unlike most others, D&L's funnel is integral to the frame, a nice touch. The mainspring housing is rounded at the butt, which adds to shooting comfort. Some flat mainspring housings are so sharp at the butt that they "bite" during recoil. A MIL-STD-1913 rail on the dust cover accommodates white lights or lasers, and we chose to use a SureFire X200 LED high intensity white light.

One would instinctively think that the long slide would be significantly heavier than a standard M1911, but this is not the case. We put several of our standard size 1911s on our digital postage scale and the long slide weighed only 5 to 6 ounces more than standard M1911s. The longer barrel is slightly more muzzle heavy than a standard pistol, but we didn't find this to be particularly detrimental to overall handling. Basically, the D&L long slide generally handles and shoots like a 1911. After a few rounds, we were hard pressed to tell the difference between this pistol and a standard M1911. On the other hand, D&L Professional Models have features that set them apart from most other custom M1911 type pistols.

Sights are another unique D&L feature. Both front and rear sights feature tritium inserts and non-glare serrations. The rear sight is adjustable for windage and held in place by two Allen head screws, rather than the usual single screw, again to enhance durability and reliability. The front sight is another story. While most custom M1911s have dovetailed front sights, this is the part of the pistol that's liable to take the most abuse, which can knock the sight out of alignment. Small movement might not be visible, but could cause large changes of point of impact. For this reason Dave installs his front sight by inletting the slide, mounting the sight and locking it down with no less than three locking screws. This front sight isn't going anywhere unless it is physically torn off the pistol.

The trigger is a Colt type series 80 with trigger actuated firing pin safety. Some say it's almost impossible to achieve a high quality trigger pull with the Series 80 firing mechanism, but Dave has disproved this. Our long slide's trigger broke like snapping a piece of glass at 5.5 pounds with no creep or backlash. Although some firing pin safeties are actuated off the grip safety and this was indeed the first such safety incorporated by Colt in the 1930s, Dave prefers the trigger safety for the simple reason that the firing pin isn't freed until the trigger is pulled. Dave uses titanium plated components for the safety to help smooth the trigger's operation. With a grip safety actuated firing pin safety, the firing pin is released as soon as the pistol is gripped, which is almost like having no firing pin safety at all. Such safeties serve basically as a "drop" safety that blocks the firing pin should the pistol be dropped. One reliability enhancing feature of D&L Professional Models is sand cuts in the barrel and slide. The barrel cuts are visible in the ejection port while the slide cuts are visible only when the pistol is disassembled. These cuts are unique to D&L custom pistols as far as we know and what with many Special Forces users buying their own M1911 type handguns for use in "The Sandbox." Sand cuts are a pretty good idea because sand has caused a plethora of operational difficulties with just about every military small arm in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Sand cuts in conjunction with a virtually dry lubricant like TW25B enhances reliability. What sand does get into the works of D&L's pistols has someplace to go besides into the operating parts where it can cause a stoppage. This doesn't eliminate good maintenance procedures, but does help when the chips are down.

One potential problem with 1911 pistols can happen should the extractor hook break, making the pistol inoperable. Dave Lauck has solved this problem with his patent pending "Tanto" extractor, so called because in profile it resembles a tanto knife point. While Dave still recommends that his 1911s be fed in the traditional manner from the magazine, his design is far more forgiving than traditional extractors when dropped onto a chambered round. The Tanto extractor can be fitted to any 1911 and requires a slight bit of gunsmithing to machine a small cut in the chamber to accommodate the extractor, but we believe Dave Lauck's Tanto extractor is a worthwhile addition to any 1911.

A final reliability detail unique to D&L 1911s is a locking firing pin stop. While it is unlikely, Dave's locking firing pin stop prevents any misalignment of the firing pin stop or extractor by positively locking the stop in place. Since the firing pin stop is held in place by nothing but the firing pin head under spring pressure, it is possible that the stop can drop slightly and not return to its correct position, allowing it to catch on the back of the cocked hammer. This isn't a frequent stoppage, but in a gunfight it could have disastrous consequences, so it is one of those small details that differentiate D&L Sports™ 1911s from the rest.

Shooting Impressions

Shooting the Professional Model long slide was a pleasure. The pistol functioned with total reliability and superb accuracy. Muzzle rise was virtually nil, partially due to the added weight out front and the slightly heavier weight of the pistol itself.

In sum, D&L's Professional Model long slide isn't cheap, but if the 1911 user is looking for a pistol that represents a custom pistol in the truest sense of the word, D&L Sports™' Professional Model is an excellent starting point in any barrel length. For those whose budget doesn't allow purchase of a Professional Model, D&L's Service Model is an alternative. Either way, Dave Lauck's custom 1911s are about as good as it gets in the classic handgun that refuses to die.

The D&L
Sports™ Inc. "COMPACT CUSTOM" is designed for the shooter
desiring a small, reliable, yet powerful carry piece with excellent
handling characteristics and corrosion resistance.

Prices available on request

D&L
Sports™ CR-45 (Close Range .45 / Deep Cover Model)

The
CR-45 was designed for those who need a powerful, no snag 1911
for close range shooting.

The CR-45
is similar to the compact custom, but designed to offer the ultimate
in no snag concealability. Conventional sights are
eliminated in favor of a bead front sight. Recessed in the front
of the slide is a round shotgun bead to assist
in close range pointability.

This allows
for the most snag-free sighting arrangement possible. The hammer
spur is eliminated, and the grip safety tang is contoured to the
frame radius to minimize overall size and minimize snag potential.
Furthermore the dehorning work on the CR-45 is very substantial.
The pistol is heavily dehorned and the size of the controls are
kept to a minimum. A series 80 hammer is used after being bobbed
and completely dehorned. This creates a snag-free, very compact
pistol which maintains the internal dimensions required for long
term functioning with full power 45 acp ammunition. Downsizing
the 1911 beyond the CR-45 is not recommended due to problems with
functional reliability and longevity of the pistol with full power
ammo.

Prices available on request

Interchangeable 1911 Front Sight

( patent pending )

Sights for the 1911 have evolved over decades of use in a wide variety of shooting disciplines. CCW, hunting, bulls eye, silhouette, defense, military target, and low light shooting have all been considered during the development of different sight designs for the 1911.

Long term shooters have seen various sight designs come and go with differing levels of acceptance and success. Sight choices for the 1911 have even included optical devices, but here we will focus on iron sight choices.

One area of debate has always been adjustable sights versus fixed sights. Some shooters choose adjustable sights because they are generally simple to adjust with a screw driver. This helps in achieving a precise zero, and re-zeroing when a shooter changes to a different load. The drawbacks to adjustable sights on a 1911 is that they are generally more fragile, complicated, sharp, and are more likely to experience zero loss. Even top of the line adjustables will shear off screws and sight blades when installed on hard use 1911s.

Shooters who prefer fixed sights most often cite durability as their main concern. However, they often end up carrying a pistol which is not precisely zeroed for their eye, hold, and load because standard design fixed sights have limited zeroing flexibility, especially after night inserts have been installed.

The D&L Solution

Dave Lauck's design solution can be applied to select models of D&L Signature 1911s. This solution allows an operator to select the preferred ammunition brand, the preferred zero range, and then zero the pistol's elevation impact precisely by means of an interchangeable front sight.

Installing a taller front sight causes the impact on target to be lower. Installing a shorter front sight causes the impact on target to be higher. Windage adjustment is fine tuned by drifting the rear sight.

Once this procedure is properly completed, you will have a precisely zeroed fixed sighted pistol which you can depend on to maintain zero under the harshest of use conditions.

The combination of D&L front and rear 1911 sights provide the most positive sight picture available today. The deep rear notch combined with the narrowed front sight allows for precise shooting at high speed. This sight set up is highly visible while remaining low profile on the slide. The sight picture can be had in black, black with night inserts, or black with night inserts with white outlines.

What about durability? It is safe to say the D&L Signature 1911 sight set is the most durable sight set available today. The rear sight is precisely machined out of a single block of steel, then locked in place with two massive #10 set screws. No pins, no pivots, no two piece blades subject to shearing off.

Front sight durability and installation has been a big problem on many 1911s over the years. Front sights shooting loose and flying off when you need them most has been a problem. The current trend of cross dovetailing 1911 front sights has not been a good solution. These sights are prone to shearing off at the connection point between the blade and the body. They are also prone to substantial zero loss if they are bumped sideways in their dovetail.

The best solution for front sight installation durability has been professionally installing 0.125" tenyon front sights. The problems with these are they are not elevation adjustable, and they can't be removed without destruction and loss of your night insert.

Dave Lauck's interchangeable front sight solves all these problems and is the most durable front sight ever designed for the 1911.

This front sight base is machined down into the slide so the sight has recoil shoulders at the front and rear of the sight. Shooting loose is no longer possible. The sight has side impact barriers which will not allow the sight to move sideways and disturb the pistol's zero. The sight is held in position by 3 custom made, high tensile strength 6-48 flat head screws which do not interfere with the sight picture, and which allows operator level interchangeability. It is now simple to adjust zero, or replace a damaged front sight blade. It is also now possible to easily remove the front sight for pistol refinish without having to destroy the front sight and night insert.

Developments at D&L Sports™ are made with decades of experience and millions of rounds fired. Professionals will recognize this sight set as a big step forward for the 1911.

Prices Available on Request

( only suitable for select custom built D&L Signature 1911s )

D&L Extreme Duty Ejectors

( patent pending )

The 1911 auto pistol has used a fixed ejector since its introduction. When the pistol is fired, the extractor pulls the fired case from the chamber and holds it in the breech face until the case impacts the ejector and is kicked out of the ejection port. This happens every time the pistol is fired. In other words, if you fire the pistol 100 times, the ejector gets impacted 100 times. The ejector takes a beating, and sometimes it fails. Most commonly the ejector will shear off its double mount platform when it is impacted by a cartridge case. This normally causes the ejector to fall free from the pistol, and the pistol to cease functioning as designed. What's worst about this failure is that it is unpredictable. It commonly happens all at once, without warning indicators, and it may occur on your first shot or shot number ten thousand. It is also a problem that is not easily repaired under field conditions. This type of parts breakage puts most shooters out of commission until the problem can be professionally repaired.

The original 1911 fixed ejector design also had problems kicking the case cleanly out of the pistol, frequently resulting in failure to eject stoppages.

To help minimize ejection stoppages, more modern ejectors have been manufactured with extended impact noses. This was helpful in achieving more positive ejection of spent casings, but the extended ejector noses sometimes become bent or broken, creating other problems.

The D&L Design Solution?

Dave Lauck factors decades of experience and millions of rounds of live fire into every design solution at D&L Sports™. Knowing what has failed in the past allows for upgrading affected components to drastically minimize future failures.

The D&L Extreme Duty 1911 ejector has three mounting contacts instead of the 1911's original dual contact design. This dramatically increases the ejector's resistance to impact shock, and greatly reduces the chances of ejector shear. There have not been any cases of ejector shear ever reported when using Extreme Duty ejectors.

The Extreme Duty ejector features an extended design to assure positive case ejection. To cure ejector nose durability problems of other designs, the Extreme Duty ejector is manufactured of heat treated steel, over 50% thicker than other designs. There have not been any cases of ejector nose bending or breaking ever reported when using Extreme Duty ejectors. In short, the Extreme Duty ejector is the most heavy duty and reliable 1911 ejector in existence today.

What is the negative side of the Extreme Duty ejector? It does require professional installation, and moderate additional expense. It is best installed during a custom 1911 build project, rather than being installed as an add-on part on existing pistols.

For those who have sheared or bent ejectors on 1911s in the past, and have experienced the problems related to doing so, there will be no question about the value of this 1911 development. Combine the Extreme Duty ejector and the D&L Tanto extractor in your next custom 1911 for the ultimate in reliability and durability.

Prices Available on Request

When considering
your premium grade custom 1911 purchase, inquire about the construction
process. Production line or "semi custom" shops are quite common these
days. That's not good enough at D&L Sports™. At D&L Sports™ your
custom project will be personally handcrafted by Dave Lauck, member
of the American Pistolsmith Guild and a top craftsman in the custom
firearms field, not by another apprentice on the assembly line. Personal,
professional, custom service at semi-custom prices and with reliable
delivery times.

Those looking
for personalized, specialized, and collector grade firearm projects
beyond what they see listed on this site should contact D&L Sports™,
Inc. directly.

Dave Lauck of D&L Sports™ Inc. has spent years perfecting the 1911 autopistol in terms of reliability, durability, and cosmetic appeal. Reliability will always be job one at DLS. This includes feeding and functioning reliability with well designed JHP bullets, as well as ball ammunition. If you are ordering a DL signature 1911 and you have a specific load you want to use, or you want to discuss what JHP loads are the best choices, feel free to contact DLS directly.

Shooters should understand that there are many different 1911 magazines on the market today, and quality ranges from excellent to terrible. When you order a D&L 1911, or 1911 custom work, please order a large enough quantity of magazines to suit your needs at the same time. That way magazines can be fit and tested in your individual pistol, which will in turn help assure top reliability. Once you get your pistol and magazines, be sure to only use ammunition recommended by D&L Sports™ Inc. and test the entire shooting system thoroughly prior to serious use. Using poor quality, or out of spec ammunition can create unnecessary reliability problems. The pistol, magazines and ammunition are all critical parts of the shooting system. Skimping in any of these areas can cause dangerous problems. Free free to contact D&L directly if you have questions.